WVU’s Joseph named to Big 12 preseason team

MORGANTOWN – West Virginia’s Karl Joseph has been named to the Big 12 Conference preseason team, which is chosen by the media representatives who cover the league.

Joseph, a junior safety, recorded 68 tackles, two forced fumbles, four fumble recoveries and four pass breakups in 2013.

“It’s great that Karl has been recognized as one of the top players in the Big 12 Conference heading into the season” WVU defensive coordinator Tony Gibson said. “He has played a lot of football for us in the past two years and made a lot of plays. We look forward to him making a lot of plays for us again this season.”

Last week, Joseph was named to the Bednarik Award watch list.

The preseason squad was dominated by upperclassmen, as 18 seniors and five juniors were among the 26 honorees.

Baylor led the way with seven selections, including quarterback Bryce Petty, the league’s preseason Offensive Player of the Year choice.

TCU lineman Devonte Fields is the preseason Defensive Player of the Year and Oklahoma State wide receiver the Newcomer of the Year.